Why you should get to know Beyonce and her music

Beyonce's music is definitely worth listening to and getting to know. I recommend it specifically because her music can relate to anyone, at any time, any where. She has a song to fit any mood and any song of hers can brighten my day. I listen to Beyonce at the gym, on my way to class, and right before I go to bend. Her sound is unlike anything else I know, and I simply just cannot get her music out of my head. Also, Beyonce always makes me point known and distinguishes what she believes from other people. Her message is always clear in her music, which is why i love listening to it so much. Yet some listeners may challenge my view by insisting that some of her music isn't real to her because she didn't write it herself. Some view her as just another pop woman figure like a Madonna. Yes, Beyonce's girl power theme has been explored by artists in the past, however Beyonce's music and its message is still true to her and what she believes. She may not write every word, or orchestrate every note; however her voice is always there and is prevalent. She is not just another female artist to enter the music world. There is a reason Beyonce has been such a strong presence in the industry for almost two decade's now. Her music kicks ass and so does she.

Liner Note Reflection

At first when we were assigned to write the liner note, I was a little nervous and confused just because I had never heard of one before and it is certainly a different structure than writing an essay. However, once I got the general feel for it, I realized it was not so hard, and it turned out to be actually enjoyable to write. I loved researching Beyonce's songs and background. It was remarkable to learn about all the effort and meaning that goes into each of her tracks. Also, since she is such a popular artist, is was very easy to find credible analysis and interviews.

I had a common theme in my playlist, so relating each song back to that really worked for my liner note and added depth and a purpose to my playlist. However, at times I felt like there was so much to include from quotes from Beyonce herself, to lyric analysis, to commentary on the music video. Since there are so many aspects to each one of her songs, I felt as though I could not include all that I wanted to. Overall, I enjoyed writing the liner note because it was unlike any other english assignment I have had before.

Why Beyonce is important to me

I chose Beyonce as my focal artist for the semester because I truly believe she has started a revolution. From the second she launched her solo career in 2003, Beyonce has been a symbol of independence, class, and strength. For as long as I can remember, when people ask my who my role model is, I always say Beyonce. There is just something about the way she carries herself that makes her unforgettable and lovable. She is so important to me as an artist because she manages to have a song for any mood I am in. Whether it is getting over a relationship, wanting to dance, or just wanting to enjoy life- Beyonce has a track for any occasion. She is my go to girl, and she has not let me down yet.

Like I said, Beyonce has started a revolution for female power throughout her career. In my opinion, she is the most socially relevant female artist in pop music today. She gives girls a realistic model to look up to. She is has a full body, and works it. I have not spoken to one person, who does not think she is the epitome of class. Her beauty is truly inside and out, and she shows that in everything she does. She is superwoman! Not only is she an amazing artist, but she is a wife and mom as well. The pop culture world would not be the same without Beyonce's ongoing commitment to girl power and strength. Without her, we would be lost in a world of Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez; Beyonce brings truth and meaning to the pop culture world.

Playlist research

When first assigned the liner notes, I immedtaly knew the songs I wanted to choose. I also thought I knew their purpose and basically everything about them because Beyonce is all I listen to- but i was proven wrong. After sifting through various biographies, interviews, and articles I discovered the technicalities behind each song and Beyonce's inspiration and purpose for each of the tracks. I found articles from several magazines such as Entertainment Weekly and New York Magazine, which provided great insight into the inner workings of Beyonce's albums. I learned about the reactions to her songs and music videos. For example, the music video for "Best Thing I Never Had" received excellent reviews because of the artistry behind it and how Beyonce sings directly to the camera. I also found interviews with Knowles herself from Billboard stating her inspiration for "Run the World"; she wanted to mix together different eras and cultures to find a new sound and she did just that. The research I did for the liner notes was very interesting and informative, learning how much critique and work goes into one song.

Beyonce's "Girl Power" Playlist

Beyonce's Girl Power Playlist:
"Best Thing I Never Had"- Beyonce- 4
"If I Were a Boy"- Beyonce- I am Sasha Fierce
"Run the World (Girls)- Beyonce- 4

When I think of Beyonce, the first word that comes to mind is empowering. As I described in my previous blog, the reason I chose Beyonce is because she is a strong, confident woman and her songs convey just that. The playlist I chose embodies Beyonce's "Girl Power", yet each song delivers a different message. "Run the World (Girls)" is my favorite go-to song whenever I need to get excited about anything, and it really identifies with women's strength and coming together. "If I Were a Boy" identifies with us girls when dealing with a boy, and provides a sense of hope and strength. Finally, "Best Thing I Never Had" tells a story of a girl who does not need a boy to be happy, showing Beyonce's true independence giving us listeners something to aspire to. Collectively, these songs create the ultimate playlist for any girl who needs a little guidance and strength. Beyonce always delivers empowering messages through her music, but this playlist will always get the message across!

Why I chose Beyonce (1)

Welcome to Beyoncé’s Blog Spot! In class today, Jessica assigned us to pick an artist or group to focus on for the entire semester. I was initially thrown off because how could I chose simply one artist to focus on when I have such a plethora of interests. My ITunes library ranges from Michael Jackson and Christina Aguilera to Tim McGraw and Blake Shelton. However, after much deliberation I have chosen to focus on Beyoncé Knowles for this semester. I have grown up listening to her and her records range from upbeat dance music to slow and soulful. To me Beyoncé epitomizes class not only in her music but also in her daily life, and I am extremely interested to further immerse myself in her career and artistry. I have always found her music relatable, catchy, and just so enjoyable to listen to. I ultimately chose Beyoncé because I have found that she has a song to fit any mood I am in and she is one of the few artists out there that serves as a positive strong role model to all.